What you should know about omicron rise – Orange County Register

By Dr. Graham Tse,

Contributing writer

The latest coronavirus surge, caused by the omicron variant, has proven to be significant.

Omicron is the most contagious variant by far – but fortunately, early data suggests it doesn’t cause as much disease as earlier variants. However, it remains an extremely dangerous variant and makes sense for many people, especially based on the number of people it is infecting.

Everyone, especially those 65 and older, should not be caught off guard while the omicron variant is common. In fact, the elderly should remain vigilant during times of omicron hyperemia because of its high transmissibility, and the fact that seniors are at higher risk and predisposition to health conditions. potential.

The Kaiser Family Foundation released hospital data in mid-December, showing breakthrough cases – COVID-19 cases occurring when fully vaccinated – requiring hospitalization, often affecting health. of older adults with diabetes, congestive heart failure, hypertension, and COPD.

The value of boosters

Another important fact that seniors need to remember is that appropriate older adults are the first in the community to get vaccinated.

Unfortunately, the immunity provided by the COVID-19 vaccine has been shown to decrease over time. To help protect seniors, I strongly encourage all eligible seniors to get their booster shot as quickly as possible, which will help protect you from serious illness and hospitalization with COVID-19 .

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released data showing that 1 in 100 Americans over the age of 65 dies from COVID-19. Those numbers are staggering, so it’s paramount to step up as soon as you qualify.

Enhanced Eligibility

CDC guidance has just been updated. If it has been at least 5 months since your second dose of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine or two months since your Johnson & Johnson vaccine, you are eligible and should get a booster shot right away.

Now, there’s a wider choice of vaccination sites to get you vaccinated – your doctor’s office, urgent care facility, local pharmacy, and through the city you live in. Both appointment and walk are available through many of these options. Visit myturn.ca.gov to see what options are available near you.

Tips to stay alert

If you have received a booster, then you can take extra precautions to make sure you keep yourself safe.

The state recently relaxed some of the restrictions just before this wave of omicrons hit, and while it’s frustrating and we’re all tired, it’s important to get back to a “constraint mentality.” ” there.

All of these methods reduce your chances of catching COVID-19:

• Wear a mask: Wear your mask indoors or in crowded situations whenever possible. Preferably N-95 or KN95 laminated medical masks. Please avoid using cloth masks as they offer less protection to the omicron variation.
• Distance: We tend to let our guard down around friends or loved ones more than strangers when it comes to keeping our distance because we know them. But in reality, the indoor transmission of omicrons is usually during gatherings with friends and family. This is the time to stay vigilant by covering your face indoors, staying away from society, holding outdoor gatherings, or avoiding gatherings together.
• Sanitize/wash your hands often: Even if you’ve been vaccinated, it’s important to be diligent about washing your hands or using hand sanitizer. If you’re at the grocery store and can’t wash them right away, carry hand sanitizer with you and make sure you use it after touching a trolley or any public service. It is extremely important not to touch your face – eyes, nose or mouth – until you can wash your hands or sanitize.
• You are essential, so do only what is necessary: ​​Remember how valuable you are! Don’t put yourself in harm’s way if possible. Try to limit your run to the grocery store by planning the week, instead of going every few days. Try to avoid crowded places like public transport or crowded indoor shopping centers or theaters, if possible – there are many premium transit services available that are less crowded and follow the traffic rules. COVID-19 safety awareness.

Of course, socialization and mental health are also important as we experience another surge. I’m not advocating total isolation in your life, but it’s important to be aware of risky behaviors and make sure you’re making the best choices for your health. Connecting via Zoom or even a phone call can still be uplifting. Can connect with friends and neighbors outside, stay 6 feet apart and wear a mask.

While this increase doesn’t sound as bad as last winter’s increase, it’s still important to be aware of your own health and well-being during the omicron wave. Be alert and stay safe!

Dr. Graham Tse, MD, is a COVID-19 physician in charge of both MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center and MemorialCare Miller Long Beach Women & Children’s Hospital. He helps promote best practices, treatment protocols, and standards, as well as COVID-19 communications, to middle-level employees.